Device for precision positioning of instruments at a MRI scanner

Abstract

A device in the form of an elongated articulating arm having a base for mounting it on or at the MRI apparatus. The free end of the arm is arranged to releasably mount any type of device, e.g., a clamp, a bracket, a biopsy needle guide, etc. The arm includes a plurality of interconnected segments each of which is arranged to pivot with respect to adjacent segments. A flexible elongated adjustable tensioning member extends through the arm between the base and the distal end portion to enable the arm to be moved or bent into a desired shape when tension is released and then held in that shape when tension is applied.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority from Provisional Application Ser. No. 60 / 892,343, filed on Mar. 1, 2007, entitled Device For Positioning Instruments at a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scanner, and also from Provisional Application Ser. No. 60 / 973,206, filed on Sep. 18, 2007, entitled Device For Precision Positioning of Instruments at an MRI Scanner, both of which applications are assigned to the same assignee as this application and whose disclosures are incorporated by reference herein.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[0002]“Not Applicable”INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISK[0003]“Not Applicable”FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0004]This invention relates generally to holding devices and more particularly for holding devices for use with MRI Scanners.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0005]Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an advanced technique for visualizing internal human anatomy and disease...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention is a device for holding items near an MRI apparatus. The device consists of an articulating arm with a flexible elongated tensioning member. The arm has multiple segments that move relative to each other but are restricted from twisting. The segments have concave and convex surfaces that fit together to form a pivot joint. The arm can be attached to the MRI table using a sheath and securely positioned in different locations. The device can hold various items such as a biopsy needle or a clamp. The tensioning member is a ribbon-like arrangement consisting of multiple sections or runs of cord. The device allows for easy movement and positioning near the MRI table."

Problems solved by technology

Because MRI requires a very powerful magnetic field and precise measurements of the molecular movements created by an electromagnetic (radio-frequency) pulse, any distortions that may occur from nearby electrically conductive or magnetic materials will degrade the resulting image data.

However, many tools and devices that are common to other interventional medical procedures are not available or have yet to be developed for use during MRI.

Images